Optic protection via stagnant liquid film

摘要

Systems and methods for the protection of optics are provided. In one example embodiment, a laser processing system is provided, the laser processing system comprising a laser source and an optic. The laser processing system may further comprise at least one of a liquid delivery mechanism configured to deposit liquid on the optic and an evacuation mechanism.

主权项

1. A method for protecting laser optics, comprising:
providing a laser processing system for delivering a pulse of laser energy to a target surface, the laser processing system including an optic to be protected; applying a flow of liquid to a surface of the optic, via a liquid delivery mechanism; allowing the liquid to stagnate upon the surface of the optic such that the liquid is not flowing a period of from about two seconds to about eight seconds; transmitting the pulse of laser energy through the optic and the stagnant liquid and onto the target surface; and evacuating the liquid from the surface of the optic.